Chief Olabode Akanbi Thomas (October 1919 – November 23, 1953) was a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, politician, and traditional aristocrat. He was Nigeria’s first Minister of Transportation and co-founded the country’s first indigenous law firm, Thomas, Williams & Kayode, alongside Chief Rotimi Williams and Chief Remilekun Fani-Kayode.
Born in Lagos to a wealthy family with royal lineage—being a great-grandson of Alaafin Abiodun of Oyo—Thomas pursued legal studies in London and was called to the bar in 1942. Upon returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent legal figure and was actively involved in politics. He served as the legal adviser to Egbe Omo Oduduwa and was a founding member of the Action Group party.
In 1951, Thomas was appointed Minister of Transport and later became Minister of Works. He also held the traditional title of Balogun (war chief) of Oyo, reflecting his significant influence in both political and traditional spheres
Thomas was known for his brilliance and work ethic but was also perceived as arrogant and hot-tempered. A notable incident highlighting this was his confrontation with Alaafin Adeyemi II during a council meeting in 1953. Thomas, then chairman of the Oyo Divisional Council, reprimanded the king for not standing upon his arrival. The Alaafin, feeling insulted, reportedly responded, “Se emi lo n gbo mo baun?” (Is it me you are barking at like that?). That evening, Thomas fell ill and, according to some accounts, began barking like a dog before passing away the next day at the age of 34.
Today, his legacy endures, notably through Bode Thomas Street in Surulere, Lagos, named in his honor.